International Criminal Court opens office in country investigated for crimes against humanity

The International Criminal Court (ICC) has reached an agreement with the Venezuelan government to open a representative office in the capital Caracas.

Tòa án hình sự quốc tế mở văn phòng tại Venezuela. (Nguồn: Reuters)

The International Criminal Court (ICC) will open an office in Venezuela. (Source: Reuters)

Speaking after talks with Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro in Caracas, ICC Chief Prosecutor Karim Khan expressed hope that with this agreement, the ICC can promote "closer cooperation" with the Venezuelan side on issues such as judicial reform and ensuring justice in this South American country.

However, the ICC Chief Prosecutor did not provide details on when the representative office would open or the number of staff the agency has in Venezuela.

Meanwhile, President Maduro affirmed that the Venezuelan government and the ICC have made a favorable step in strengthening cooperation between the two sides. Venezuela is ready to defend the truth against distortions and lies that are being repeated against the Caracas government.

Previously, in November 2021, the ICC announced a preliminary investigation into the Venezuelan government on allegations of crimes against humanity that occurred during protests in the country in 2017 that left more than 100 people dead.

At the time, President Maduro said he respected the ICC's decision but disagreed with its views.

This is the third visit to Venezuela by ICC Chief Prosecutor Karim Khan. This time, he arrives in the capital Caracas after concluding his activities in Colombia.

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